On Monday night we dedicated the new state-of the art Foster Theater at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It is one of the most technologically advanced theaters in the country and it was made possible by the generous support of Gregg and Madelyn Foster. Designed by Oscar-winning architect Jeff Cooper, it features Dolby 3D, remote control video cameras, an incredible sound system and the capability to stream events and video conference.

At the dedication we recognized the Fosters for their support—and screened the U2 3D concert film. It was a fantastic event attended by many board members, and local luminaries—including Cleveland Cavaliers players and front office. They were in town because the season opener was the next night against the Lakers.

The theater is an important component of a major initiative to upgrade the Museum and construct and operate the Rock and Roll

photo caption: U2 3D will screen in the Foster Theater until January 2.

Hall of Fame’s Library and Archives. The theater hosts the Museum’s educational and public programs serving hundreds of thousands of students and visitors each year. The renovation prepares the Museum for live-streaming content to enhance its award-winning distance learning program. It also gives the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame the capabilities to record artist appearances, oral history programs and other events that take place in the theater. Footage from these programs will be preserved in the Museum’s Library and Archives, which will open in downtown Cleveland in 2010.

The redesign project will happen over the next 2 years in the winter months and we will make sure that the work does not have a negative impact the visitor experience. This work is supported by funds raised in our $35 million capital campaign. To date we’ve raised $33 million and hope to finish the campaign soon—please visit our webpage for information on how you can help. And at the very least come by the museum to see the amazing U2-3D film—we will screen it each until the end of the year.